Garlic Herb Corn on the Cob Recipe
If you are looking for a simple yet wildly flavorful side dish that elevates any meal, you have to try this Garlic Herb Corn on the Cob Recipe. Sweet, tender ears of fresh corn get a luscious coating of garlic-infused butter blended with bright herbs and a touch of lemon juice, transforming each bite into a burst of savory sunshine. This recipe feels like a little celebration of summer’s bounty on every cob, perfect for backyard barbecues or cozy dinners alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and classic, but each plays a key role in building the rich harmony of flavor and texture that makes this Garlic Herb Corn on the Cob Recipe unforgettable. From creamy butter to zesty lemon juice, every element works together beautifully.
- 4 ears fresh corn on the cob: Choose ears with bright green husks and plump kernels for the best sweetness and crunch.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter spreads easily and acts as a creamy base to carry the garlic and herbs.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a vibrant, pungent kick that enhances the natural sweetness of the corn.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped: Herbs bring a fresh, green brightness that lifts the dish from buttery to brilliant.
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste): Key for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste): Adds a subtle warmth and a bit of spice to balance the richness.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: A splash of acidity that cuts through the butter and garlic, leaving a refreshing finish.
How to Make Garlic Herb Corn on the Cob Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Corn
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt seasons the corn as it cooks, enhancing its natural sweetness. Once boiling, add the fresh corn ears and cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes, until they are tender yet still have a satisfying crunch. This ensures your corn won’t turn mushy but stays perfectly crisp.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter
While the water heats up, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice in a bowl. Mix everything thoroughly until you get a smooth, fragrant butter blend. This step is where the magic happens — the garlic and herbs infuse the butter with layers of fresh, aromatic flavors that will coat the corn beautifully.
Step 3: Butter the Corn
Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the water and allow it to cool just enough so you can handle it safely. While still warm, slather the garlic herb butter generously over each ear of corn. The warmth helps the butter melt into every kernel, making every bite a rich, garlicky, herbaceous delight.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Garlic Herb Corn on the Cob hot, straight off the cobb, while the butter is still gloriously melty. This recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes and is sure to become a crowd-pleaser at your next meal.
How to Serve Garlic Herb Corn on the Cob Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh or spicy twist to your Garlic Herb Corn on the Cob Recipe, consider sprinkling some freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a pinch of smoked paprika over the buttered corn. Chopped scallions or a squeeze of extra lime juice can also bring brightness and a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Side Dishes
This corn on the cob recipe shines alongside grilled meats like steak or chicken, but it’s equally delicious with lighter options such as a crisp green salad or a tomato and avocado salsa. The buttery, herby corn complements so many textures and flavors — perfect for summer feasts and casual dinners alike.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the corn skewered on decorative wooden sticks and wrapped in parchment paper to keep hands clean. Alternatively, cut the kernels off and toss them into a salad or pasta for that wonderful garlic herb flavor without the hassle of a cob — a delightful way to repurpose leftovers too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Garlic Herb Corn on the Cob Recipe, wrap the ears tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days and can be enjoyed cold or reheated.
Freezing
While corn on the cob is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover cooked corn. Remove the kernels from the cob, spread them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Frozen kernels keep for several months and make a quick, flavorful addition to soups or casseroles.
Reheating
To reheat your Garlic Herb Corn on the Cob, simply warm the ears in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute or briefly wrap them in foil and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. Add a fresh dab of garlic herb butter before serving to revive that freshly cooked flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn for this Garlic Herb Corn on the Cob Recipe?
Fresh corn is ideal for this recipe because of its sweet flavor and crisp texture, but if frozen corn on the cob is your only option, it will still work. Be sure to thaw it completely and pat dry before cooking, though the texture might be a little softer.
What herbs work best besides parsley or cilantro?
Fresh thyme, chives, or basil can also be fantastic alternatives. Each herb will bring a slightly different profile—thyme adds earthiness, chives a mild onion flavor, and basil adds a sweet, floral note.
Can I make the garlic herb butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the butter mixture a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature before spreading it on the warm corn to get that perfect melt.
Is grilling an option for this Garlic Herb Corn on the Cob Recipe?
Yes! Grilling the corn adds a smoky char that complements the garlic herb butter beautifully. Simply grill the corn husked or wrapped in foil until tender and slightly charred, then apply the butter as instructed.
How do I adjust the recipe for more servings?
This recipe scales easily. Just increase the amount of corn, butter, garlic, herbs, and seasonings proportionally. Mixing the garlic herb butter in a bigger batch ensures every cob gets that perfect flavor coating.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about enjoying fresh corn on the cob doused in a hearty garlic herb butter. This Garlic Herb Corn on the Cob Recipe is not only easy to make but also endlessly delicious, making it a perfect go-to side for nearly any occasion. I encourage you to try it at home, share it with friends, and watch it become a beloved staple on your dinner table.
Print
Garlic Herb Corn on the Cob Recipe
- Total Time: 14 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Garlic Herb Corn on the Cob recipe features fresh sweet corn cooked to tender perfection and generously coated with a flavorful garlic herb butter blend. It’s a quick and easy side dish that brightens up any meal with its garlicky, buttery, and fresh herb notes, perfect for summertime or year-round enjoyment.
Ingredients
Corn
- 4 ears fresh corn on the cob
Garlic Herb Butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, preparing it for cooking the corn.
- Prepare Garlic Herb Butter: While waiting for the water to boil, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice in a mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly until all the ingredients are blended well.
- Cook Corn: Place the ears of corn into the boiling water. Let them cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the kernels are tender yet retain a slight crispness.
- Remove and Cool Slightly: Carefully remove the corn from the boiling water using tongs and let them cool just enough so they’re safe to handle.
- Apply Garlic Herb Butter: Generously spread the prepared garlic herb butter over each warm ear of corn, allowing it to melt and absorb fully.
- Serve: Serve the garlic herb corn on the cob hot, making a delicious side dish to complement your favorite main courses.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can grill the corn after boiling for a few minutes to add a smoky char.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and herbs to your taste preference.
- If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried parsley can be used but reduce quantity to 1 tablespoon.
- Butter can be substituted with olive oil for a dairy-free version, though the flavor will change.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best citrus brightness.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
